Mom Blogger Monday: Melissa Rundell

Downtown Momma

Melissa Rundell grew up in the country with open fields and dirt roads. Today, she's raising a young boy in Downtown LA where she often goes hunting for "little playgrounds tucked within the skyscrapers."

The stay-at-home-mom of 16-month John Arthur is married to her lawyer husband (who actually proposed to her in the middle of a boxing ring during a Las Vegas fight).

They live in a loft in Downtown Los Angeles, where she has made it a point to explore the area with John Arthur. Together, they have discovered quiet, clean and fun places in Downtown LA to enjoy a play date, like the Bank of America Plaza and Grand Park. Melissa also takes her readers on Sunday Morning walks with unique views of The Broad museum and other Downtown landmarks.

She majored in journalism and uses her blog, Downtown Momma as a creative outlet, "especially after becoming a stay-at-home-mom," she says. Even with the mom and wife duties, Melissa manages to share inspiring posts and take care of herself (we love her gorgeous long hair, which she hasn't cut in over six years)!

Awesome job, Melissa! We love your blog and your openness and look forward to seeing many more pictures of your DTLA Adventures with John Arthur!

What inspired you to become a blogger?

I have always loved writing - I was a journalism major in undergrad - and my blog became my creative outlet once I became a stay at home mom.

What is your proudest Mommy Blogger Moment?

Every time I hit publish, I get a bit of butterflies in my tummy because it means that I made the effort to pursue my passion. After becoming a mother, I can find myself putting my husband, my son and my home before myself but, blogging helps me pursue all of my passions - Exploring our neighborhood, photography and writing.

What's your favorite place to take the kids in LA?

We love walking around DTLA and our favorite place to run around is Spring Street Park. There are so many little ones living downtown and it is so fun to see them making friends and creating memories together.

What's your favorite LA hang out without the kids?

My favorite place to be is right next to my hubby on our couch, binge watching our favorite shows after our little one is asleep. If we are really feeling fancy and can convince grandma to come babysit, we'd love to have dinner at Otium and then watch the latest play at the Taper Theatre.

What's your best motherhood advice?

Always follow your instincts and be confidant in your decisions. Listen to all of the advice that is given - from family, friends, blogs, books - but, at the end of the day, you know what is best for your family and children.